Destroyed

Massive house fire on King Road

May 2, 2013

SHERIDAN - A house was destroyed by a massive blaze in the town of Sheridan. Firefighters were called to the scene on King Road early Wednesday morning.

Sheridan Fire Department responded to the scene at about 12:45 a.m. at 2149 King Road to find the garage fully involved, according to Fire Chief Aaron Brinkman. Six residents were inside the home at the time of the fire. All were able to escape without injury. While the investigation is still under way, Brinkman said it is believed the fire started inside the garage or just outside the garage.

"The garage was fully involved when we got there. The wind was pushing the fire towards the house," Brinkman said.

Article Photos

OBSERVER Photo by Daniel Kohler Several fire departments responded to an early morning fire on King Road in Sheridan. Six residents in the house were able to escape without injury. The fire is believed to have started in or near the garage.

OBSERVER Photo by Matt Panebianco A fire destroyed this residence on King Road in the town of Sheridan.

Wind and a lack of hydrants proved to be problematic for firefighters. Since the residence is in a rural area, there were no fire hydrants. Water was transported in and placed in portable ponds for departments to use. In addition to Sheridan, fire departments from Forestville, West and East towns of Dunkirk, Hanover, Silver Creek and Fredonia Rescue 71 responded to the call. The fire was under control in about 90 minutes.

While the fire originated in the garage, departments tried to save the house from as much damage as possible, Brinkman said.

"Extremely large wind gusts pushed the fire right into the house. It was balloon framed and it took off from there," Brinkman said. "We tried to protect the house as much as we could... The wind really killed us, it was really bad."

There was one minor injury sustained by a Sheridan firefighter who was taken to the hospital. No other injuries were reported. The fire is still under investigation by the county fire investigation team. The Red Cross is assisting the residents. Red Cross Volunteers Mary Walker and Fran Heath were on scene to provide initial disaster assistance. Temporary housing, clothing and meals are typically offered in time of disaster. Firefighters were on the scene for over two hours.